This toy storage hammock hangs in the corner of a room. It's a great way to corral stuffed animals and keep them visible. This is a very easy project that can be finished in an hour or two. Because it's a loose, open pattern, it uses relatively little yarn, so it's a great opportunity to use up leftover yarn.
Step 1
Choose any yarn and any hook that feels comfortable with it. This project doesn't really have (or need) a gauge. A larger hook and gauge will make a larger net and faster work.
Step 2
Tie a slip knot and chain about six stitches. This makes the first of three optional hanging loops, so if you'd like the loop larger or smaller, chain more or fewer stitches.
Step 3
Slip stitch into the first stitch in the chain, forming the first optional hanging loop.
Step 4
Chain any number you'd like. This chain will form one side of the triangular sling or hammock, so chain until you get the length that you will want (see tips). The chain could be anywhere from 18 inches to three feet or more for larger toys.
Step 5
Chain another six (or whatever number you used in step 2) for the second optional hanging loop. Slip stitch back into the chain, six stitches back.
Step 6
Chain four. Skip two stitches and double crochet into the third.
Step 7
Proceed across the rest of the first row as follows: chain two, skip two stitches in the row below and double crochet.
Step 8
Turn the work and slip stitch into the first loop.
Step 9
Chain four. A chain of four starts each subsequent row, too.
Step 10
Double crochet into the next loop.
Step 11
Continue across the second row in the same manner: chain two, double crochet into the next loop. Don't worry if there's a stitch or two left over at the end.
Step 12
Continue adding rows until you are down to a single loop. This pattern naturally reduces with each subsequent row.
Step 13
Turn the work and slip stitch into this final ring to center in it a bit better.
Step 14
Create the third optional hanging loop. Chain six (or your number from step 2) and slip stitch back into the loop from the last row.
Step 15
Tie off and sew in the ends.
Tips
- Mount the hammock on cup hooks in any corner.
- Gather up the stuffed animals that will live in this hammock, set them in a corner, and measure diagonally how long the front will be to size your first row. If you're not sure, make the hammock a bit larger than you think you will need.
- The hanging loops are optional because you could simply hang the hammock from the corner loops of the triangle.
- If you prefer, you can use metal hanging rings. You can use key chain type rings added after the crocheting is done or form the corner loops around any metal rings.
If you prefer, you could hang all three corners from one overhead hook. It will help to get the right size if you decide this in advance of making the project.
Warnings
- This fabric will take the weight of an assortment of stuffed animals, but not kids. Hang it high enough that they won't try to swing from it, and explain to older kids that it's for their toys, not them.
Things You'll Need
- Yarn
- Crochet hook of any size suited to the yarn
- Scissors
- Metal rings or key rings (optional).
